Steadman also redesigned two funds  one for clean and renewable energy, and one for traditional sources such as natural gas and coal.

Environmentalists have been staunch defenders of the clean-energy fund, and they are happier with the latest changes.

Our frame of reference is the Governors Energy Office has helped hang out that sign that were open for business in clean energy here in Colorado, said Pete Maysmith, executive director of Colorado Conservation Voters.

The bill still has to pass two more Senate committees and the full Senate.